Victim Witness Coordinator

This position is responsible for administrating and coordinating the County Attorney's Victim Witness Assistance program.  

• Assists the County Attorney in performing statutory duties  and obligations of office with respect to victims and witnesses including but not limited to: coordinating victims and witnesses for court hearings, depositions and trials; subpoenas witnesses, victims and law enforcement for depositions, court hearings and trials; prepares and processes court documents for all attorneys, assisting with further investigation of a criminal offense by coordinating the gathering of evidence and obtaining statements from victims and witnesses.

• Assists the victims and witnesses of crimes by providing direct service in person, by telephone and/or in writing, including but not limited to:  acting as the contact person for all inquiries regarding dates and times for depositions, trials and other court hearings; accompanies victims and/or witnesses to court hearings, depositions and trials if requested by attorney; and coordination with other services for victims and witnesses when necessary.
• Act as a liaison between victims/witnesses and the County Attorney's Office, the court, community support agencies, law enforcement, and other government agencies related to the criminal case.
• Assess the emotional, physical, and financial needs of the victim and provide referrals to agencies best able to support those needs.
• Inform victims/witnesses of their rights and protections under Iowa Code Chapter 915. Ensure victims are given an opportunity to register as a victim, seek restitution when applicable, and present a victim impact statement at sentencing. 
• Complies with the Code of Iowa, pursuant to Chapter 915, in maintaining the victim registry and notifications of case status.  Maintains current records and files for each victim throughout the criminal process.
• Prepare and mail/send subpoenas out for service. Track receipt of subpoenas. Research and file travel claims related to the subpoena.
• File documents with the court through the Electronic Document Filing System (EDMS). Including but not limited to: applications for restitution, victim impact statements, applications to extend/modify/dismiss protective orders, and registering victims with the court.
• Update forms and internal policies to meet changes in the law or to meet the needs of the community.
• Becomes efficient in abilities through trainings and networking with other Victim Witness Coordinators, and provides training to law enforcement, other agencies and the public
• Performs related duties.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s Degree in social services, law enforcement, or related field.

• One to two years of work related experience in a criminal law office.

• Knowledge of the criminal justice process and civil law including Iowa Code Chapter 915.

• Knowledge of litigation and document management software 
• Knowledge of community support services and agencies.
• Knowledge of basic psychology/social sciences and the trauma informed approach when working with victims.
• Skill in meeting internal and external deadlines.
• Skill in critical and strategic thinking.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in effective, professional, tactful and confident oral and written communication.
• Skill in operating computers and job-related software programs.
• Skill in Microsoft Office and Adobe programs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity and distinguishes between shades of color.
• The work is typically performed in an office.